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Jennifer Maytorena Taylor and Dee Hibbert-Jones Awarded NEA Grants

Professors Recognized for Their Outstanding Documentary Film Work

$25,000
Art Works – Media Arts
To support production and post-production costs for a documentary by Assistant Professor, Social Documentation, Jennifer Maytorena Taylor (UCSC Film and Digital Media). Set in Rutland, Vermont, the film closely follows Mayor Louras and a small ensemble of intersecting characters for two years. Shot cinema verite style, "The Gut" will explore perspectives on complex issues facing residents, such as community transitions and economic growth. The film will be targeted for national broadcast and offered to film festivals, streaming platforms, and educational outlets once it has been finished.

$25,000
Art Works – Media Arts
To support production and post-production costs for an animated documentary by Academy Award-nominated filmmakers Associate Professor Dee Hibbert-Jones(UCSC Art Department) and Nomi Talisman. The second in the "Living Condition" trilogy, "De'Juan's Story" tells the story of a young man whose uncle was on death row and how it has affected his life. The film captures De'Juan at various life stages-from visiting his uncle weekly as a child, to the death of his mother and uncle-and finally as a college student living independently. Once the documentary has been completed, "De'Juan's Story" will be offered to film festivals and art venues, and targeted for national broadcast. Select portions of the film will be available to stream online as webisodes.